The TTC 450 CNC router from Two Trees has garnered attention among hobbyists and small shop owners looking for an affordable yet capable machine. With its 80W spindle and the optional 500W spindle, this router promises versatility for various materials. In this review, I will delve into the machine's features, assembly process, performance, and overall value to determine if it's worth the investment in 2024.

Features and Specifications
The TTC 450 boasts an impressive work area of 460 by 460 millimeters, with 80mm of Z travel, making it suitable for a range of projects. Constructed with an all-aluminum frame and an MDF waste board featuring threaded inserts, it offers a sturdy platform for operations. The machine's movement is powered by Nema 17 stepper motors, which drive the lead screws for all axes except the Z-axis, which utilizes a more powerful Nema 23 motor. The A4988 stepper drivers control the motors, providing a reliable entry-level performance.

In terms of spindle options, the machine comes standard with an 80W spindle capable of spinning up to 7000 RPM. However, the optional 500W spindle, which can reach 12,000 RPM, is worth considering for those looking to push the machine's capabilities when working with harder materials. This flexibility makes the TTC 450 an appealing choice for various applications, including wood, plastic, and even aluminum, provided the right settings are used.

If you're looking to order OEM precision CNC machining parts from CNCLATHING, this machine can serve as a stepping stone to achieving high-quality results in your projects.

Assembly Process and Initial Impressions
When I received the TTC 450, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it was packaged. The compact box and protective foam ensured that all components arrived in perfect condition. The assembly process took about an hour and a half, thanks to clear instructions and meticulously labeled parts. Each package contained easy-to-read labels, eliminating the frustration often associated with assembly.

After assembling the machine, my initial thoughts were positive. The size is substantial without being overwhelming, weighing under 50 pounds, allowing for easy maneuverability. The build quality felt sturdy, and most cables were organized within a drag chain, making the wiring relatively hassle-free. However, I did encounter a couple of notable issues: insufficient slack in the Z motor cable and what seemed like an upside-down drag chain design. These minor inconveniences should be addressed in future iterations of the machine.

The aesthetics of the TTC 450 are enhanced by the inclusion of an offline touchscreen controller, which functioned as expected during setup. While the appearance is important, the true test lies in the machine's performance.

Performance and Capabilities
In testing, I began by exploring the machine's cutting capabilities using the 80W spindle. Following the general rule of thumb for hobby CNC machines, I attempted a two-millimeter depth of cut at 300mm per minute in butcher block. While the initial cut went well, I noticed some struggle during contour operations at 100% step-over. Shifting to walnut, I adjusted the depth to 1.5mm and observed some chatter, which affected the finish quality. With a few tweaks to the feed rate and spindle speed, I felt confident that I could achieve better results.

Next, I tested the router's ability with white HDPE and found that slowing down to 200mm per minute with an 8000 RPM spindle speed yielded great results. However, when I attempted to cut aluminum with the same spindle, it quickly became clear that the 80W spindle was not up to the task.

After swapping to the 500W spindle, I encountered initial setbacks, including a burned-out relay. However, Two Trees’ customer service was commendable, promptly sending replacement parts. Once operational, the 500W spindle significantly improved performance, allowing for deeper cuts and faster feed rates. Ultimately, I managed to complete cuts in plywood and aluminum, although I still faced minor setbacks, often due to my own errors.

For anyone in need of machined parts with high precision, the TTC 450 can produce satisfactory results with the correct settings and adjustments.